Before you pursue an LPN license, consider whether you have the personality traits and skills to become an LPN. Successful LPNs are usually compassionate, patient, detail-oriented people who are in good physical shape and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. If this sounds like you, working towards receiving your LPN license may make a lot of sense for you. Read on to find out how you should proceed.
Requirements
In order to enroll in an LPN program, you’ll have to:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass a drug test
- Pass a criminal background check
Some programs may also require that you have a high school GPA of at least 2.0 and that you provide a letter of recommendation from someone who knows you well.
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How to Get a LPN Degree
In order to become a licensed practical nurse, you’ll have to complete a training program that’s accredited by a respected agency like the Accredited Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Then, you’ll have to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).
You can find accredited LPN training programs at community colleges, technical schools, high schools and hospitals. These programs usually last about a year and cost between $1,000 and $15,000.
Once you’ve completed your training program, you’ll be ready to take the NCLEX-PN, an electronic exam that will assess the knowledge and skills you learned in your classes. In order to take the test, you’ll have to request authorization from your state’s board of nursing, which will determine whether or not you’re eligible to take the exam. Once you’ve received clearance, you can schedule your exam at a testing location near you. Visit https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex.htm for specifics on receiving authorization and scheduling your exam.
On test day, you’ll be given 5 hours to complete the exam, which will consist of 85 to 205 questions, most of which will be multiple-choice. If you pass the exam, you’ll be eligible to receive your LPN license, making you marketable to employers looking for LPNs in your area.